Philomena is tops as 2006 Mum of the Year

MUNSTER might be top of the rugby world but Leinster can lay claim to one important title as a Wexford woman was yesterday named as Mum of the Year 2006.

Philomena Lawlor, from Castlebridge, Co Wexford, beat off strong competition to win the popular annual award, jointly sponsored by Woman’s Way and Bosch.

The mother-of-three was nominated for the coveted award by her daughter, Tracie, who suffers from cystic fibrosis.

Ms Lawlor’s younger son, Joseph, 22, also suffers from cystic fibrosis, which has meant both children have required constant medical attention throughout their lives.

She was chosen as the winner from over 1,000 entrants for what judges described as her incredible drive and commitment to ensuring her children lived life to the full, despite the many obstacles they faced daily.

“Philomena is an exceptional winner. She has spent her entire life putting her children’s needs before her own. By remaining positive and strong in the face of adversity, she has proved that the impossible is possible and as a result is an inspiration to all women,” said Simone Kenny, editor of Woman’s Way.

The judging panel included Miriam Ahern, John Creedon, Dana, Frances Black, Twink as well as Woman’s Way publisher, Norah Casey and Bosch marketing executive, Louise Dundon.

In a fresh innovation, TV3 entertainment correspondent, Lorraine Keane, was named the first-ever Celebrity Mum of the Year after topping a poll held among readers of Woman’s Way.

Regional winners of the Mum of the Year competition were: Eileen McLaughlin from Buncrana, Co Donegal (Ulster); Kathleen Cronin, Killorglin, Co Kerry, (Munster); Maeve Prunty, Colga, Co Sligo (Connacht) and Lily Murray, Donnybrook (Dublin).